Preparing for A2L Refrigerants and Advanced Leak Detection
Welcome to the June-July edition of the 2J Supply Newsletter! This issue focuses on the upcoming transition to A2L refrigerants and best practices for electronic leak detection. Don't miss out on our latest updates and promotions, including the 2J Supply Success Convention.
News
What to Know About A2L Refrigerants
The HVAC industry is preparing for the transition to A2L refrigerants on January 1, 2025. According to Allison Skidd, Director of Global Regulatory Affairs at Rheem, it's crucial for HVAC contractors to understand the new refrigeration standards and prepare accordingly.
New Refrigerant Regulation Starting January 1, 2025.
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) published the final rule under the American Innovation and Manufacturing Act (AIM) on October 24, 2023. This rule sets global warming potential (GWP) limits for air conditioning, establishing a GWP limit of 700 for new AC/HP equipment by January 1, 2025, and by January 1, 2026, for variable refrigerant flow HVAC systems.
Packaged equipment must comply based on the date of manufacture, and split systems must comply based on the installation date. This unexpected installation compliance date shortens the time for compliance since it applies to existing inventory. As a result of industry pushback, the EPA amended the rule to allow higher-GWP HFC equipment manufactured or imported before January 1, 2025, to be installed until January 1, 2026.
Impact on Contractors' Day-to-Day Work
Contractors need to familiarize themselves with these regulations to ensure compliance. For example, there is a three-year sell-through period for the existing inventory of R-410A packaged products made before 2025. R-410A components, such as indoor coils, outdoor condensing units, or air handlers, can be manufactured and installed indefinitely as long as they are used for servicing already installed equipment.
- Preparing for the Transition Contractors should take several steps to ensure a smooth transition:
- Understand the different compliance aspects of the GWP rule as they apply to systems, products, and components.
- Plan the switch to A2L refrigerants to avoid stranded stock of R-410A equipment.
Seek information and training on the safe handling of A2L refrigerants from manufacturers and trade associations. Although new certification isn’t required, taking advantage of available training is recommended.
Future Refrigerant Transitions
The refrigerant transition is ongoing. According to Skidd, the EPA is proposing additional regulations, such as refrigerant cylinder tracking and the requirement for reclaimed refrigerant use in new and serviced equipment starting in 2028. Moreover, states like California, Washington, and New York are creating independent regulations that may differ from federal requirements. Staying informed about local rules is essential for contractors.
How A2L Refrigerants Contribute to HVAC Decarbonization
As policymakers at various levels work to enhance the sustainability of the heating and cooling industry, new regulations aim to reduce emissions, improve efficiency, and advance decarbonization. One such regulation is the switch to A2L refrigerants, effective January 1, 2025. Here’s what you need to know about A2L refrigerants and their role in HVAC decarbonization.
What Are A2L Refrigerants?
According to industry experts, A2L refrigerants are characterized by mild flammability, low toxicity, and a low global warming potential (GWP). They have a lower flammability rating compared to A3 refrigerants (such as hydrocarbons, propane, and isobutane) and a lower toxicity rating than B series refrigerants (such as ammonia). A2L refrigerants are considered the second safest class of refrigerants and can be either single refrigerants or blends of multiple refrigerants in specific amounts.
How Do A2L Refrigerants Contribute to Decarbonization?
The switch to A2L refrigerants is part of the industry’s broader sustainability and decarbonization efforts. A2L refrigerants are emerging as replacements for older, high-impact refrigerants like hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) in air conditioning and commercial refrigeration systems. The American Innovation and Manufacturing Act (AIM), enacted in 2020, authorizes a 15-year phasedown of HFCs across various applications, including HVAC. On October 24, 2023, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) published the final rule under AIM, setting a GWP limit of 700 for new AC/HP equipment by January 1, 2025, and for variable refrigerant flow HVAC systems by January 1, 2026.
Impact on HVAC System Installs
Packaged equipment needs to comply with the new A2L standard based on the date of manufacture, while split systems must comply based on the installation date. According to Allison Skidd, Director of Global Regulatory Affairs at Rheem, “The date of installation compliance was not something we were expecting for AC, and it effectively shortens the time we must comply because it applies to existing inventory. For that reason and others, the industry pushed back heavily on the surprise aspects of the final rule. This resulted in EPA amending the final regulation to allow for installation of higher-GWP HFC equipment manufactured or imported before January 1, 2025, to be installed until January 1, 2026.”
HVAC Training and Education
Installation Best Practices for HVAC Installers
With the introduction of new refrigerants on January 1, 2025, it's more important than ever for HVAC installers to adhere to best practices for system installations. Joseph Faulk, a technical trainer at Allied Air, offers a refresher on top recommended practices for ensuring efficient and effective HVAC installations.
Perform a Proper Load Calculation
According to Faulk, performing a proper load calculation is more critical than before. This step establishes a strong foundation for the rest of the project. By installing more efficient equipment, improving door and window efficiency, and adhering to higher insulation standards, a home's load can be met with the appropriate equipment.
Select Proper Equipment
Once load calculations are completed, it's crucial to select the right equipment to meet the application's needs. Proper sizing and installation of necessary accessories can improve overall home comfort and ensure the system's longevity.
Evaluate Ductwork
Evaluating existing ductwork is essential to ensure proper airflow throughout the home. Making necessary modifications can significantly impact the equipment's performance and the system's overall efficiency.
Ensure Line Sets Are Properly Sized and Clean
The diameter and length of line sets may vary depending on the equipment type or efficiency. To use an existing line set, ensure it is clean and properly flushed.
Check Electrical Requirements
Switching to a heat pump or installing more efficient equipment can alter electrical requirements. Faulk emphasizes the importance of evaluating the entire system, including accessories, to ensure wiring, breakers, and fuses match the equipment's expected load. Additionally, verify that low voltage wiring is correctly sized and installed according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Set Equipment According to Manufacturer and Local Code Requirements
Ensure that all manufacturer and local code clearance requirements are followed when setting up equipment. This includes following manufacturers' piping and brazing procedures, such as using nitrogen to keep tubing clean.
Pull a Vacuum on the System
With new refrigerants, there is a higher expectation for how systems are evacuated and vacuums pulled to ensure the system is clean and leak-free. Although time-consuming, this step is necessary.
Charge the System Accurately
Charging the system according to the manufacturer's recommendations is vital. Precision in charging ensures optimal system performance. Take the time to perform calculations and weigh the charge accurately, and record these values on the equipment as the industry transitions to new refrigerants.
Perform a Startup and Document It
Conducting a startup and documenting it on a performance checklist provides final verification that the equipment is running properly. This documentation also serves as a reference for technicians during standard maintenance.
With the upcoming changes in 2025, these best practices are key to ensuring successful HVAC system installations.
Advanced Leak Detection: The Benefits of Electronic Leak Detectors
While soap bubbles have long been a reliable method for detecting refrigerant leaks in HVACR systems, electronic detectors offer higher sensitivity for pinpointing micro-leaks quickly. Here’s a look at the four main types of electronic leak detectors available to HVACR technicians; heated diode, corona discharge, infrared, and ultrasonic. Understanding the ins and outs of each technology can help you determine the best fit for your toolkit.
Heated Diode Detectors
According to industry experts, heated diode detectors work by heating sampled air to a high temperature, ionizing halogenated refrigerant gases. The resulting charged chlorine and fluorine ions generate current through the diode, triggering an alarm. These detectors can identify leaks of HFC, CFC, HCFC, HFO, H2N2 (Tracer Gas), and other refrigerant blends.
Corona Discharge Detectors
Corona discharge detectors, similar to heated diode detectors, react to changes in current flow from ionized gases. They pull sample air through an electrical field around an electrode. The electric arc (corona discharge) breaks down gases, causing a change in electrode current, which signals a leak.
However, false alarms can occur because corona discharge detectors do not trigger on specific refrigerant compounds. Their response times are slightly slower than heated diode detectors, and corona sensor life can be as short as 24 hours of use.
Infrared Leak Detectors
Infrared detectors use a beam of infrared (IR) waves through potentially contaminated air to detect and analyze trace amounts of refrigerant, signaling a leak. Because light absorption in the IR spectrum is gas-specific, these detectors are least susceptible to false-positive alarms and are highly accurate across all refrigerant types. They are particularly effective with newer refrigerants containing less chlorine and fluorine.
Ultrasonic Leak Detectors
Ultrasonic leak detectors, also known as “listening detectors,” detect tiny sound fluctuations in the form of high-frequency sound waves created when refrigerant escapes from a pressurized system. These detectors can identify very small leaks in high-pressure systems, and their sensors have a long lifespan.
However, ultrasonic detectors are less effective with low-pressure systems and can be influenced by jobsite noise.
In conclusion, HVACR technicians have several options for electronic leak detection tools, including heated diode, corona discharge, infrared, and ultrasonic detectors. The right tool depends on the refrigerants you work with, the desired accuracy, and the overall cost of ownership. Investing in the right electronic leak detector can make your job easier and more efficient.